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There are many seldom-said, little-known words in the English language that need to be revitalized. We tend to describe different things using similar words that just don’t adequately express the soul of the idea. And we often string descriptors together to describe something for which there is one perfect word. For example, we came upon this word, and Jack and I have begun to use it. It’s the simplest way to say exactly what it means!
Apricity: the warmth of the sunlight in winter.
Unfortunately, it is a word that was introduced in the 1600’s and never caught on. Perhaps we just don’t spend enough time out in the winter weather to truly appreciate the moments that call for this word. If I had to guess, I’d say that it is definitely a part of our animals’ vocabularies, because they sure do enjoy this feeling… this apricity.
Funny, when I type the word, my computer autocorrects it to “apricot.” So, here is my call to action: Add the word “apricity” to your vocabulary, and perhaps we can resurrect a perfectly good, long-forgotten word!
Now that all of the ice is gone, mornings are spent out in the pastures – nibbling breakfast as the sun rises.
Each grazing session starts with a little cross-fence excitement as the ponies race over to say hello from the neighboring pasture.
After a couple hours of munching, I call from the gate for Moonie and Red to come back to the barn and they oblige.
Leaving the pasture is always rewarded with a serving of chow at the barn. It’s a tasty treat that rounds out the equines’ nutrition… a mostly low-calorie supplement of vitamins and minerals… that they love!
They both come running – and of course, Forrest joins in the fun.
Forrest… the great disrupter! But, we love him so.
And the horses tolerate his antics.
After breakfast, everyone settles into a sunny spot in the dry lot for a power nap, and I take the opportunity to brush the herd. I brush bits of pine bedding from the donkey’s fur after their night’s sleep in their hut.
Red and Moonie have begun to shed, so I try to remove as much loose hair as possible. As I work, Forrest “helps” by stealing horse brushes and my gloves.
I remind him that he is two years old now – but something tells me he’ll forever retain his playful, mischievous behavior.
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2025-03-19 03:00:00
Karl Hoffman is a distinguished agriculturalist with over four decades of experience in sustainable farming practices. He holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy from Cornell University and has made significant contributions as a professor at Iowa State University. Hoffman’s groundbreaking research on integrated pest management and soil health has revolutionized modern agriculture. As a respected farm journalist, his column “Field Notes with Karl Hoffman” and his blog “The Modern Farmer” provide insightful, practical advice to a global audience. Hoffman’s work with the USDA and the United Nations FAO has enhanced food security worldwide. His awards include the USDA’s Distinguished Service Award and the World Food Prize, reflecting his profound impact on agriculture and sustainability.
